|
‘War on drugs’ extended 3 more years
Chris Clegg
for South Peace News
The war on drugs is alive and well in the High Prairie region until Sept. 30, 2013.
The M.D. of Big Lakes council narrowly agreed by a 4-3 vote at its Sept. 30 meeting to pay the majority of the cost of the enhanced policing program, which involves hiring two police officers whose main focus is drug enforcement.
Council first agreed at its Sept. 16 meeting to send letters to neighbouring municipalities threatening to pull the plug on the program, which currently sees the M.D. pay $166,000 a year while the Town of High Prairie and Peavine Metis Settlement each pay $30,000 a year. Council requested others to pay some of the costs of the program.
CAO Jeff Renaud told council at its Sept. 30 meeting they received an answer from the Town of High Prairie confirming its financial commitment, and Gift Lake Metis Settlement, who said they would pay $3,000 for one year. Peavine did not confirm its $30,000 commitment.
High Prairie RCMP S/Sgt. Steve Daley also presented a report to council on enhanced policing’s achievements.
One by one, councillors had their say.
“I know it’s important for us to get some dollars from other partners,” said Faust Councillor Violet Campiou. “But I know it’s a very needed program. We did step up to the plate. If we step back it will only get worse.”
Joussard Councillor Guy L’Heureux wondered where the other prospective partners were. He said communities around the region take part in walks against drugs and other activities.
“Where are they?” asked L’Heureux. “So what is it? Is it just an act?”
Campiou compared the M.D.’s impending decision on enhanced policing to paying most of the bills on the recently completed Seal Lake Road.
Triangle, Gilwood Councillor Ken Matthews said the cost to not continue the war on drugs would be higher if they chose to walk away because of social assistance and costs to the legal system. He added the M.D. should be talking to its neighbours on other issues.
“Not just the drug thing,” said Matthews. Garbage. . .recreation is another thing. We should be talking about that, too!”
L’Heureux reminded council they agreed at their last meeting to consider pulling the plug if no one stepped forward.
“It’s small but it’s positive,” said Prairie, Echo, Salt Prairie Councillor David Marx.
“I voted in favour of it before,” said Reeve Alvin Billings. “But is it our responsibility to get into policing?”
“Is it our responsibility for health?” asked Campiou. “If someone doesn’t step up to the plate. . .we’re more than just roads.”
Sunset House, Gilwood South Councillor Randy Ehman offered another view.
“The drug industry is based on supply and demand. When you take out (one group) there will be another one to take its place. You take out one there will be more behind him. You have to eliminate the demand.
“When I look at the money we’re spending I have to look at it, if there’s a better place to spend our money.”
“I think $150,000 a year to look after our youth is cheap,” said Marx. “If we can get a name where this is a place not to sell drugs and you’ll get caught, it’s worth it.”
Still, L’Heureux was concerned no one stepped forward to offer significant money.
“No one wants to carry their share,” he said. “I’ve never been against it, but our neighbouring municipalities won’t step up to the plate for the war on drugs. I have no trouble paying but I want them to pay, too.”
“I have to agree with you, Guy,” said Billings.
“I have a tough time paying all the time,” added Kinuso Councillor Ken Killeen.
And Marx added he didn’t like it either but still saw the good work enhanced policing does.
Campiou, Marx, Matthews and L’Heureux voted in favour of the motion while Billings, Ehman and Killeen voted against. Grouard Councillor Fern Welch and Enilda Councillor Ray Dupres were absent.
Council will continue to meet with local First Nation and Metis Settlements in efforts to forge more intermunicipal agreements including enhanced policing.
< Previous
Home
Next >
|
